FAQ

Everything you need to know.

Overview:

General facts

What is being built?

A 246-meter test tower is to be built in order to develop, test, and examine the latest elevator technologies. Modern architecture, which represents the art of our engineering, should give the tower a light, elegant appearance.

Why not build the tower in Neuhausen auf den Fildern?

Building a tower like this 75 kilometers away at the thyssenkrupp elevator factory in Neuhausen auf den Fildern is not possible due to its proximity to Stuttgart airport.

Will the tower change the town's skyline?

The tower will not change Rottweil’s historic skyline as the planned site is situated approximately 1.5 kilometers from the historic center.

Why was Rottweil chosen as the site?

We feel a strong connection to the state of Baden-Württemberg due to our elevator factory in Neuhausen auf den Fildern. Crucial factors behind the decision to choose Rottweil included the central location not far from our site, its proximity to the high-tech corridor around Stuttgart, political support from Mayor Bross and the local council, as well as the widespread support from the population.

Why does this tower need to be built at all?

The tower will be used to test and develop elevators for the ever-bigger skyscrapers going up around the world. We need a test tower of this size in order to be able to supply pre-tested systems that represent the cutting edge in technology for elevation heights of 600 meters and above in the future. At the same time, the project is a clear commitment to Baden-W?rttemberg as a research and business center.

Will the tower feature an observation deck?

Yes, it will. The visitor platform will be the highest in Germany at a height of 232 meters, offering a panoramic view of Rottweil and the Black Forest, stretching all the way to the Alps.

What stance have local politicians taken to the project?

Mayor Ralf Bross is a major advocate of the project: ?We would like to extend a warm welcome to thyssenkrupp. The investment represents a long-term boost to Rottweil as a business center in the technology and innovation corridor extending from Stuttgart to Zurich. Having thyssenkrupp Elevator come to Rottweil will give impetus to further economic development in the town and is therefore a big opportunity for us. The oldest city in Baden-W?rttemberg has many innovative small and medium-sized businesses run by dedicated entrepreneurs. Thanks to this multi-million euro investment, Rottweil will become known outside the area, attracting tourists and even investors too. The combination of old and new has the potential to create something unique, and this high-profile move offers lots of potential for tourism and business.?

Visual aspects

When and how will all viewpoints from both outside and inside the town be realistically simulated?

The height of the test tower was simulated before construction began using a balloon. Thanks to precise readings, we have been able to show how the tower will look from various angles and perspectives. These images can be found on our dedicated website for the test tower at www.aufzugsturm-rottweil.de.

Tourism

With that in mind, will the thyssenkrupp Elevator test tower act to increase or decrease Rottweil's ability to draw tourists?

The tower already developed into a public attraction during the construction phase. Germany’s highest observation deck, standing at 232 meters, provides a further tourist attraction for the town, proving capable of being a strong draw for people looking to spend just a day or maybe even a night in Rottweil.

Can the construction of the thyssenkrupp Elevator test tower, which will exceed the height of the Hochturm citadel by approximately 90 meters, cause lasting damage to our town's identity and its medieval heritage?

No. The contrast between old and new is precisely what makes it so interesting for tourists. Furthermore, tourism will generate additional revenue that can be used to preserve the town?s medieval heritage.

How can the elevator test tower help boost tourism?

The test tower?s observation deck will have a positive effect on drawing both day-trippers and generating overnight tourism to Rottweil. The town can also expect event tourism and package holiday tourism to grow as well.

Will there be a major increase in the number of visitors to Rottweil due to the thyssenkrupp Elevator test tower?

A significant increase in the number of visitors can be expected in terms of day-trippers. The majority of them will combine a trip to the tower with a tour of the town.

How does the thyssenkrupp Elevator test tower fit in with the goal of developing soft-mobility tourism?

The tower will mainly serve as a platform for tourists to take in the town of Rottweil, the Swabian Jura, the Black Forest, and even the Alps on clear days. This places the landscape and natural setting in the spotlight, all of which is fully in line with the concept of soft-mobility tourism.

What arguments are being put forward to ensure Rottweil is not once again denied official certification as a resort town due to a large technical structure in the Neckar valley?

The planned test tower is no way stands in the way of certification as a resort town.

Should we not worry that the increasing awareness for our town's historic significance will result in many people finding the thyssenkrupp Elevator test tower an eyesore in a few years when the initial euphoria has died down?

No, it will become clear a few years down the road that the tower is integral to marketing Rottweil beyond the region and marks a new chapter in the development of the „Town of Towers“.

Are there plans for a private operator to open thyssenkrupp Elevator test tower up to the general public for tourism purposes?

There are specific plans for an observation deck. It has yet to be decided if the tower will also be used as a tourist attraction and a restaurant. Potential partners have already contacted the town.

How can the test tower site be incorporated into the urban concept?

The Berner Feld site will be incorporated into the tourism infrastructure planning process. The tower is to be seen as a starting point and information center for many day-trippers who mainly come to visit the tower, then go on from there to tour the town and the industrial trail through the Neckar valley. It will be used to draw attention to further attractions in Rottweil and the surrounding area. The objective is to increase how long visitors stay in the region.

Sustainability

How did the local council meet its responsibility to bring the community on board to publicly debate the issue, and what was the outcome of these discussions?

Debate on the project took place on many levels. Local residents had the opportunity to discuss the matter at a town meeting, members of the Neckar valley community held a residents? meeting, the local council convened several times, and the relevant government agencies were on board from early on in the process. The media was also provided with regular updates. The debate showed that a vast majority were open to the project.

Was sustainability efficiency also put into practice when building the tower?

It first and foremost defines the function of the test tower. The development, research, and testing of innovative elevators will make our products even more energy-efficient and environmentally-friendly.

Will an environmental assessment be conducted, or at the very least the carbon footprint calculated, for the overall project, if this has not already been done?

We build sustainability in all that it encompasses into our products from day one. We save resources by making intelligent use of materials and by using environmentally-friendly materials during production. Our elevators are certified according to VDI 4707, meaning they run on less energy. The test tower itself is a special type of building, so there are no plans to obtain specific certification.

Does sustainable efficiency also mean sustainable development of Rottweil as a technological hub going forward? If so, what form will this take?

Sustainable efficiency is one of thyssenkrupp Elevator?s key goals. It is also a firmly established objective when developing elevator components and systems.
In terms of the future development of Rottweil as a technology center, this could open up opportunities for the city to work together with local businesses. Today, many companies already use environmentally-friendly and sustainable technologies. The local government here has focused its economic policy on the future growth sectors of environmental technologies, renewable energies, and efficient use of resource, the latter of which has been declared a top priority by politicians. With this in mind, Rottweil, as part of the high-tech corridor between Stuttgart and Zurich, with the active commitment of thyssenkrupp Elevator can benefit from developments in the area of green technologies taking place in the Stuttgart and the greater metropolitan area.

Are there plans to run the thyssenkrupp Elevator test tower on renewable energy?

Energy-saving drive and control technologies play a crucial role when it comes to developing elevator technologies. Energy generated during braking should be fed back into the grid or stored. Likewise, control algorithms ensure the elevator operates efficiently when conveying passengers. This means keeping stops along the way to a minimum. The use of alternative energies (for example, woodchips) will be examined and assessed during the planning process as a possible source of power for the spaces inside the test tower.

How and to what extent were the findings from the agenda groups, gained from years of civic involvement, brought into the debate?

The ideas from the work of the agenda groups were taken up by the council in its work and helped in developing the planning initiative.

What does sustainable efficiency mean? This is used to promote thyssenkrupp Elevator on your website.

Sustainable efficiency is the global sustainability program from thyssenkrupp Elevator. It is on display at all levels of our corporate culture to help ensure our services meet the needs of people, the environment, and the economy. Eco-conscious products, resource-friendly production processes, energy-saving projects, forward-looking training for our employees, and social commitment in the communities in which we operate are all forms that sustainability takes at thyssenkrupp Elevator.

What discernible effect will the high standards demanded by the thyssenkrupp Elevator corporate culture have in terms of environmentally- and resource-friendly construction as well as the operation of the thyssenkrupp Elevator test tower for the good of the community?

thyssenkrupp is sending a signal with the construction of the new elevator test tower. The project demonstrated the company?s strong commitment to Baden-W?rttemberg as a center of business. It will also be creating a new landmark for Rottweil, the ?Town of Towers.? The project cannot go ahead without the support of the residents of Rottweil, the local council, and regional politicians. Needless to say, all facets of our sustainability program have been put into practice in the building and operation of the tower. thyssenkrupp places particular importance on achieving sustainability objectives. This also, of course, factored into the tender process and was assessed separately from this process.

How could the thyssenkrupp Elevator test tower, as an example of quantitative growth and corporate financial success, contribute to qualitative growth that benefits the community?

The test tower represents the art of thyssenkrupp Elevator engineering and underscores our commitment to Germany and the Baden-W?rttemberg region. We are able to keep jobs in Neuhausen and Rottweil by building and operating the test tower in that it help us to produce high-speed elevator systems in a safe, sustainable manner for the highest buildings in the world.

Construction and construction planning

How does the council view the changes that have been necessary?

The town of Rottweil is tasked with preparing development plans when and where this is necessary for urban development and planning purposes. These plans are there to ensure sustainable urban development that combines social, economic, and environmental requirements together with responsibility to future generations, one that serves to guarantee socially responsible land use for the general public. The local council believes that the project meets these conditions and requirements. Further reviews in this area are part of the process.

When and how will these changes be communicated to those they will affect?

The transparent, two-stage land development plan process involves the general public and public authorities, where each member of the community is able to voice their suggestions and concerns. Information on this process is made available in the official announcement and through the press. The suggestions, plans, and resolutions are all presented, discussed, and put to final vote at public council meetings.

Are the existing access roads with city limits equipped for the increase in traffic?

The Berner Feld site is accessible by road, and traffic will be directed via the main highway. The streets have been upgraded to improve traffic flows and are able to cope with the increased traffic.

Have the costs for increased wear and tear as well as damage to the road surface been factored into the planning? If so, what are they and who will pay for them?

All arterial and access roads are designed to handle a level of vehicle traffic that can be expected in an industrial zone.

What is the expected useful life of the tower?

The planned test tower is a long-term investment by thyssenkrupp Elevator and a clear commitment to Germany. Strategically, it is extremely important for the modernization and expansion of our technology park in Neuhausen. Our goal is to use the test tower to further increase our competitive edge in elevator technologies.

Is thyssenkrupp Elevator setting aside reserves to cover the cost of dismantling the tower that are secure and safeguarded in the event of bankruptcy?

The planned test tower is a long-term investment by thyssenkrupp Elevator. Strategically, it is extremely important for the modernization and expansion of our technology park in Neuhausen. Our goal is to use it to further increase our competitive edge in high-tech elevators.

What specific changes are being made to the existing development plan?

The development plan will contain the planning requirements as these pertain to the construction project. This concerns the increase of the permitted height in particular.

Are there plans to rezone the business park as an industrial park?

The Berner Feld industrial estate is a combined industrial/business park so there is no need to rezone it because of the tower.

Have or will the residents on the existing access roads been provided with comprehensive information on the noise pollution that can be expected during the construction phase?

This is an industrial and business park, not a residential area where safeguards need to be instituted to protect the interests of local inhabitants. The area is designed to house commercial and industrial companies, including ones operating in multiple shifts.

Significant public resources at local authorities and the local council will be tied up planning and overseeing the construction of the thyssenkrupp Elevator test tower. What is needed in terms of additional staff resources and who will cover these costs?

One of the key tasks of Department 4: Construction and Urban Development is to prepare and carry out all of the necessary urban development and planning processes required under the planning regulations. Private planning offices may also be brought on board to provide support in specific cases. The related costs, together with the costs for further surveys and in-depth studies, will be paid by thyssenkrupp Elevator, the party who requested these services. There are staff resources already in place to complete the land development plan process.

To what extent are the materials used to build the tower suitable for recycling?

A majority of the materials being used can be recycled as it stands today, with 100 percent of the steel and stainless steel being recyclable.

Are there numbers available regarding expected costs if the tower is dismantled at the end of its intended usable life? If so, what are they and who will cover these?

The planned test tower is a long-term investment by thyssenkrupp Elevator. Strategically, it is extremely important for the modernization and expansion of our technology park in Neuhausen. Our goal is to use it to further increase our competitive edge in high-tech elevators.

Operation

How much noise can be expected during the daily operation of the thyssenkrupp Elevator, and how has this been tested?

thyssenkrupp Elevator meets strict customer requirements in terms of the operation of elevator systems. There should be as little possible noise within and outside an elevator. Our customers expect noise levels not to exceed 50 dBA. In practice, this means that no sounds are to be heard outside the tower when the test elevators are in operation. This also concerns endurance testing as well as other types of tests.

Did the tests cover wind movements (and extreme events), which could be relevant to the metal structure, for example, buzzing sounds?

It goes without saying that studies and tests regarding wind and acoustics were carried out during the tender process, and that these are considered accordingly.

The tower needs to be illuminated to ensure air traffic safety. What form will this take? Please provide details.

thyssenkrupp Elevator will provide for lighting in accordance with the applicable guidelines and regulations from DFS Deutsche Flugsicherung GmbH and the rules established by this body.

Are there plans to illuminate the logo?

It has yet to be decided whether to illuminate the logo.

Who covers the investment costs required for public use, and how high are these estimated to be?

thyssenkrupp Elevator will install the observation platform, which is designed to hold 199 people.

Will the site and tower be fenced off or freely accessible?

Access to the tower will be restricted for safety reasons.

Is it possible that an increased noise levels could disturb or disrupt businesses and residents nearby?

thyssenkrupp Elevator meets strict customer requirements in terms of the operation of elevator systems. There should be as little possible noise within and outside an elevator. Our customers expect noise levels not to exceed 50 dBA. In practice, this means that no sounds are to be heard outside the tower when the test elevators are in operation. This also concerns endurance testing as well as other types of tests. The installation of new elevators in test shafts takes place in a connected system, meaning that no noise will be able to be heard from outside of the tower.

Will it be possible to make improvements to the structure to lower acoustic emissions if they prove too high later on?

Efforts to eliminate acoustic emissions were already incorporated in the planning phase. And if there are emissions that were unforeseen, this will be closely examined on a case-by-case basis.

Are there already specific plans to place the thyssenkrupp logo on the tower? If so, how large will it be, and where will it be placed?

The tower is primarily defined by its design and function, and it collectively symbolizes the ThyssenKrupp art of engineering. We therefore place great importance on ensuring the branding on the test tower is subtle and not out of step with its surroundings. The current plan is to place signs indicating that the test tower is a ThyssenKrupp Elevator R&D facility.

What special arrangements does the Rottweil fire department have to make for the tower with or without public use?

The fire department was closely involved in the planning process, and we worked with them to prepare a fire safety concept.

Are there plans to upgrade the town's bus lines in order to better serve the industrial park?

We can expect increased demand for public transportation driven by tourism. We therefore assume that considerations will be made to improve access to the Berner Feld site when the time comes.

Risks and opportunities

Are there any firm numbers on what effect the operation of the tower by thyssenkrupp Elevator and its use by tourists will have on municipal tax revenue and other revenue for the city?

It is still too early at this time to provide any firm statistics on local business tax. This would be pure speculation. We are expecting significant positive effects from tourism; however, it is not possible to quantify these as of yet.

Have outside assessments also been conducted to examine the aforementioned issues? If so, how and by which institutions?

The town of Rottweil already presented key points for review in meetings with the authorities in the early stages before the process began.

What is expert opinion in terms of further companies, suppliers, and other ancillary firms moving to the area? Is the economic development agency ready for such an eventuality? Can and will thyssenkrupp Elevator be able to contribute here?

It is possible that thyssenkrupp Elevator could build additional test laboratories and facilities at a later date. The test and development tower definitely presents opportunities for further companies coming to the area, bringing with it new indirect jobs and trainee positions, whether at suppliers or at thyssenkrupp Elevator itself.

What is the estimated impact of building and operating the thyssenkrupp elevator test tower in terms of the prosperity and well-being of the residents of Rottweil and in terms of the financial strength of the town?

It is still too early at this time to provide any firm statistics on local business tax. This would be pure speculation. We are expecting significant positive effects from tourism; however, it is not possible to quantify these as of yet.

From your company’s perspective, what are the odds of other companies moving to the area or technologies being transferred here as this relates to thyssenkrupp’s business activities in Rottweil, and have there already been specific talks in this regard? If so, what are the specific results?

It is possible that thyssenkrupp Elevator could build additional test laboratories and facilities at a later date.

How many new full-time jobs can we expect to be created from the construction, operation, and use of the tower by tourists, through the provision of support services to the project principal, and from the tourists expected to visit to the town?

Several hundred temporary jobs will be created when the test tower is being built. There will be 30 permanent jobs in the tower, of which 25 for highly qualified engineers, who will work under the best conditions for developing future elevator innovations. Furthermore, the test tower will be used as a site for training engineers and service technicians. We also expect positive effects from visits by colleagues from various ThyssenKrupp Elevator units and prospective customers from all over the world. It is not possible at this moment to provide details as to the number of new full-time jobs in tourism for the town at this early stage.

Were these assessments made available for public debate?

Suggestions from the public authorities were made public in the process.

What does the town council see as options in order to shield town residents from financial risks taken by the party building the tower?

We do not believe this is necessary; any financial risks are borne by this party.

What is thyssenkrupp Elevator's specific role in helping foster Rottweil's further growth as a technology center?

thyssenkrupp Elevator will itself invest approximately 40 million euros in constructing the test tower. It is possible that it could also build additional test laboratories and facilities at a later date. Experience has shown us that a project of this type and scale serve as a signal in that it draws companies seeking to work in a location where innovation and technology find fertile ground.

Does the thyssenkrupp Elevator test tower have the potential to help spawn a research institute or higher education institute in Rottweil? If so, have specific strategies been developed for this? Is thyssenkrupp Elevator already involved in important strategies from a local political perspective?

Generally speaking, yes. The question opens an interesting possibility for Rottweil, which can be revisited with thyssenkrupp Elevator and other parties when the time is ripe. The city takes a positive view of this mid- to long-term option to develop the economy. It points to the development of Tuttlingen as a center of higher education, which was all made possible due to the unique economic strength of the region of Tuttlingen.